The report of the AIU lecturer in the report of the National University of Singapore

January 31, 2023

In January 2023, the Center for International Law of the National University of Singapore published the report “Teaching and Research of International Law in Asia”, based on presentations and materials from participants from various law schools and institutes of Central Asia. Among the scientific materials there is a report “Methods of teaching international law in law schools of Central Asia” by Candidate of Law, PhD, Associate Professor of the Department of International and Business Law of AIU Tegizbekova Zhyldyz Chynarbekovna.

In her report, Zhyldyz Chynarbekovna identified five main teaching methods, including some of the new technologies used in law schools in Central Asia: traditional lectures, simulation (or moot court classes), panel discussion, a method based on problem solving and the case method.

Of the above methods, she identifies simulation (or moot court classes) as the best way to expand students' knowledge and skills, as they contribute to a high level of critical thinking, develop students' understanding of the decision-making process and motivate students, making real life situations exciting and interesting. She believes that Central Asian law schools should try to use this method internally and send students to participate in various judicial competitions.

She also added that gamification is the most attractive direction in the field of educational technologies. Students begin to learn and practice while participating in fun activities. A simple example of this is Kahoot, which is convenient for conducting short quizzes. It is a widely used tool in Central Asian schools.

The article also notes that lecturers should be sympathetic to the cultural and linguistic differences of students in order to be ready to answer questions that may be neutral for some students. Thus, she makes it clear that the work of teachers does not end in the classroom. Lecturers have to find time to study new educational technologies, view data to assess how students' learning is progressing, revise the curriculum, study and understand academic standards, learn about new research-based learning strategies, and prepare for their use. “A good teacher is constantly growing, and it takes time,” said Zhyldyz Tegizbekova.

To access the report, follow the link: https://cil.nus.edu.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/TRILA-Central-Asia-Report-Final.pdf.